Tensions Rise as Forest Department Demolishes Illegal Shrine in Himachal Pradesh

The Himachal Pradesh Forest Department demolished an illegally constructed shrine in the Shastar area of Hamirpur district, following social media posts that sparked protests from the Hindu community. The administration acted swiftly to defuse tensions, with the Chief Minister kept informed throughout the incident.

The Himachal Pradesh Forest Department took decisive action on Monday by demolishing a newly constructed shrine, known as a 'mazar' of Lakhdata peer, in Shastar area of Hamirpur district. The move came amid protests from the Hindu community over alleged illegal religious structures.

Controversy erupted when images of the shrine's construction on forest land went viral on social media, triggering widespread resentment. In response, local district authorities, bolstered by security forces, issued directives for immediate action to quell the escalating tensions. Forest officials swiftly arrived at the site, removing an illegal wall that had been erected.

Hamirpur is notably the home district of Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu, who was kept apprised of the evolving situation. An official spokesperson confirmed that the area is now calm and that no further disruptions will be tolerated. Tensions peaked earlier when violent protests demanding the demolition of an illegal mosque section in Sanjauli led to clashes, resulting in injuries and police intervention.

(With inputs from agencies.)